How to Give My Dog Metronidazole

If your pup has some gastrointestinal woes, the vet may prescribe the antibiotic and antiprotozoal metronidazole. Metronidazole treats and prevents bacterial infection and is effective at treating some parasitic infections as well. Typically, it's prescribed in 250 or 500 mg tablets or 375 mg capsules. If your patient doesn't take kindly to pilling, you can try dressing his medicine up or talk to your vet about a different method of medicating him.

A dog is receiving a vaccine.

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Finish Your Medicine

Your pup may love a good treat, however don't be surprised if a tablet of metronidazole isn't exactly what he had in mind. Don't give up if he gives you fits about taking his medicine. It's crucial that he finishes his entire course of antibiotics, even if he seems to be feeling better; an incomplete run of medication only kills the weakest bacteria, leaving the strong to survive, potentially becoming resistant to antibiotics.

Down the Hatch

If your dog's giving you fits about taking his meds, take a page from Mary Poppins and use the "spoonful of sugar" approach. However, instead of sugar, wrap his pill in a treat he likes. VeterinaryPartner.com suggests wrapping the pill in lunch meat, bread or cheese, or stuffing it in a hot dog or pill pocket. If that doesn't work, ask your vet to prescribe a liquid suspension of metronidazole, compounded for easier dosing, or to administer an injectable dose of the medicine.